Marvel are making a statement: The new Iron Man is a black woman

The iconic comic book character Iron Man has a new identity. She is Riri Williams a 15 year old black woman – forget balls of steel, she has balls of iron. The events at the end of the ‘Civil War II’ series will see us saying adios to Tony Stark, and hola to Riri. Riri is a young science whizz who is accepted into MIT at the tender age of 15. She catches the attention of Tony when she builds her own Iron Man suit.

Marvel has paved the way of change for classic comic book characters in recent times – which has stirred up a debate about the diversity in its comics. While some are for, others are against. It’s a sensitive topic for those who are attached to well known characters. But, we can’t help but see all the positive ways it demonstrates progress in society and its opinions. Riri Williams will speak to a new generation and show them that they can do/be anything they want.

Marvel writer Brian Michael Bendis spoke to Time and said “I think what’s most important is that the character is created in an organic setting. We never had a meeting saying, “We need to create this character.” It’s inspired by the world around me and not seeing that represented enough in popular culture.”

We will officially see the Marvel transformation take her first adventure in ‘Invincible Iron Man #1’ this autumn.

Hannah is a twenty year old who can't get enough of all things film, TV and comedy. When she's not singing along to the Hamilton soundtrack, she's probably talking about pointless things. Also, stuck in the 90s.